Brief Overview of ἀποστοματίζω (G653: Apóstomatizō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Apóstomatizō

Root Words: The term ἀποστοματίζω combines the prefix ἀπό (apó), meaning “from” or “away,” with στόμα (stóma), meaning “mouth.” Thus, it conveys the idea of something that is done “from the mouth” or “with the mouth.”

Primary Meanings:

• To speak out or make a proclamation.
• To speak or act in a manner that is authoritative or emphatic, often implying a forceful or assertive speech.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich): BDAG describes ἀποστοματίζω as “to speak forth,” focusing on its usage to denote the act of making a statement or proclamation, often with emphasis or authority.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon does not provide a separate entry for ἀποστοματίζω, but it would likely describe it in similar terms to BDAG, emphasizing its function in expressing or proclaiming something with authority.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary does not have a specific entry for ἀποστοματίζω, but it generally aligns with the concept of speaking out or making a pronounced statement.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ does not have an entry for ἀποστοματίζω but would typically include it under terms related to speaking or proclaiming.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀποστοματίζω as “to speak out” or “to make a declaration,” highlighting its use in contexts where speech is assertive or forceful.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

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Plato (Apology, 4th century BCE): Plato uses terms related to ἀποστοματίζω in discussing speeches and declarations made with authority or emphasis, though the specific term may not be present.

Aristotle (Rhetoric, 4th century BCE): Aristotle’s works on rhetoric include discussions about assertive and authoritative speech, which would align with the meaning of ἀποστοματίζω.

Demosthenes (Orations, 4th century BCE): In his speeches, Demosthenes employs various terms for making strong and emphatic declarations, reflecting the concept of ἀποστοματίζω.

4. Summary:

ἀποστοματίζω (apóstomatizō) refers to the act of speaking out or making emphatic proclamations. Although it is less commonly found in classical literature, its meaning is closely tied to assertive and authoritative speech. Understanding ἀποστοματίζω helps in grasping the nuances of proclamation and declaration in both ancient and biblical contexts.